Oppo is reportedly set to release its first mobile processor in 2024, following in the footsteps of Samsung, Apple and Google. The company has already confirmed that it is working on creating its own mobile chip. In addition to the mobile system-on-a-chip (SoC), the company is expected to work on an in-house developed application processor (AP), which will go into mass production in 2023. AP will become an integral part of the mobile processor. and it will be manufactured using TSMC’s 6nm process.
The company is expected to use TSMC’s 4nm process for its mobile chip. If you’re not aware, TSMC is the same company that makes mobile chips for Apple.
Oppo’s first custom mobile processor: what to expect?
Oppo’s world’s first mobile processor may not match the performance of Mediatek’s or Qualcomm’s mobile chips, according to reports. The company may initially use its own chip on low-end devices, and then gradually move to building it for flagship devices. The company currently uses Qualcomm and Mediatek mobile processors for its smartphones.
Oppo states that all external design, internal design, IP design, memory architecture, ARM processor design scheme, algorithm, and supply chain record are done by the company itself, including design, digital verification, and internal integration team.
Oppo has already unveiled its first Neural Processing Unit (NPU) called MariSilicon X. Its main function is to help the chipset process high-quality images, but having its own chip will allow the company to make custom changes that will improve things. Oppo, once it releases its own mobile chip, will join the club of Samsung, Apple and Google that make their own chips. Samsung comes with the Exynos line, while Apple and Google come with the A-series and Tensor, respectively.
Smartphone brands are making more and more efforts to create and research custom chips. Other smartphone brands are also expected to announce their own chips in the coming years.
However, Oppo will launch the F21 Pro series in India on April 12 along with the Oppo Enco Air 2 Pro. The F21 Pro series will feature a Sony IMX709 camera sensor on the front and a fiberglass body.